Job Information
- Organisation/Company: National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia
- Research Field: All
- Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2)
- Positions: PhD Positions
- Application Deadline: 30 Sep 2026 - 12:59 (Europe/Ljubljana)
- Country: Slovenia
- Type of Contract: Temporary
- Job Status: Full-time
- Hours Per Week: 40
- Offer Starting Date: 1 Oct 2026
- Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?: Horizon Europe - ERC
Offer Description
Postdoctoral Position in Synthetic Biology and Protein Engineering
We are seeking an ambitious and creative postdoctoral researcher to join a newly established research group within the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana, Slovenia. This full-time position is funded by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant and focuses on engineering of novel enzymes for genome editing.
Project Overview: The project aims to develop next-generation genome editing tools based on tyrosine recombinases - small enzymes that can precisely manipulate large DNA fragments but are difficult to reprogram for binding selected nucleotide targets. These tools hold significant promise for gene therapies, particularly for diseases involving complex mutations in large genes. The candidate will lead efforts to apply high-throughput screening and bioinformatics for data-driven enzyme engineering. Main tasks will include:
- Design and construction of large DNA libraries
- Development of novel methodologies for high-throughput enzyme characterization
- Optimization of next-generation sequencing workflows and data analysis
Key Tasks and Responsibilities: Preparing material and/or proposals for research and development or scientific projects; - More complex treatment and integration of individual, narrower research problems linked within a research thesis or project; - Independent research in a chosen field of study; - Training and coordinating the work of technical associates and transferring expertise to colleagues; - Preparing articles and technical reports on the work carried out, their presentation and submission to the Head of the Unit and, where appropriate, to external users; - Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
What We Offer:
- A fully funded postdoctoral position within an ERC-funded project
- Access to state-of-the-art equipment and opportunities for collaboration with leading experts
- Support for career development, including conference participation, mentoring and grant writing
We offer a flexible mentoring style tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you thrive with regular feedback, or prefer greater independence, we will adapt to support your professional growth.
Candidate Profile: We are looking for a motivated researcher with a strong background in synthetic biology or protein engineering. We especially welcome candidates excited to lead subprojects and help mentor junior members as the team grows. The candidate is expected to take intellectual ownership of their project, contribute to strategic decisions, and participate in manuscript preparation and dissemination of results.
Required qualifications:
- PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology, or related fields
- Experience with molecular cloning, bacterial cell culture, next-generation sequencing workflows
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills and excellent command of English language
Desired experience (not mandatory):
- Familiarity with bioinformatic tools and programming skills (Python, R, or similar)
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based assays
- A strong publication record in relevant fields, including at least one first-author research article
Why choose Slovenia? Slovenia combines top-tier scientific infrastructure with a high quality of life and affordable living. Ljubljana is a vibrant, safe, and green city surrounded by nature, with easy access to hiking, skiing, the coast, and cultural events. You will benefit from low cost of living, a supportive, English-speaking research community, and access to EU research networks.
How to Apply: website: https://www.ki.si/en/tenders/career/
Duration of Employment: The position is for a fixed term, starting upon employment until September 30, 2028, with the possibility of a contract extension.
Start Date: As agreed; Start date is flexible but can be as early as in October 2026.
Additional Information: +386 1 4760 424, dr. Tina Lebar
Where to apply
Website: https://www.ki.si/en/tenders/career/
Requirements
- Research Field: All
- Education Level: PhD or equivalent
- Languages: ENGLISH (Level: Good)
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 1
- Company/Institute: National Institute of Chemistry
- Country: Slovenia
Contact
- State/Province: Slovenia
- City: Ljubljana
- Website: https://www.ki.si/
- Street: Hajdrihova ulica 19
- Postal Code: 1000
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